Robert Che Chao

Robert Che Chao holds an individual CBP customs broker license and operates out of El Segundo, California, one of the key logistics hubs in the greater Los Angeles basin. Assigned filer code EPG, he is listed on CBP's official permitted broker contact roster and is authorized to transact customs business on behalf of importers before U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

El Segundo's proximity to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), the Port of Los Angeles, and the Port of Long Beach places Robert Che Chao at the center of one of the most active import corridors in the country. These ports handle enormous volumes of goods arriving primarily from Asia — including electronics, consumer goods, textiles and apparel, machinery and equipment, and manufactured products — making a knowledgeable local broker a critical asset for importers navigating the complexities of U.S. customs law.

For importers of record, understanding entry requirements is essential. Robert Che Chao can assist with formal vs. informal entry customs determinations, helping clients identify the correct entry type based on shipment value and commodity. Properly classifying goods under a 10-digit HTS code is foundational to every customs entry, and accurate classification directly affects duty liability, admissibility through partner government agencies, and potential eligibility for trade programs.

ISF 10 plus 2 filing — also known as importer security filing — is a mandatory requirement for ocean shipments entering the United States, and timely, accurate ISF submissions help importers avoid costly CBP penalties. Robert Che Chao's experience in the LA/Long Beach trade lane, where ocean freight from Asia dominates, makes ISF compliance a routine part of the brokerage process.

Beyond entry filing, importers should also understand bonding requirements. Whether a single entry bond or a continuous customs bond is appropriate depends on the frequency and volume of imports. Brokers like Robert Che Chao can advise on which bond structure fits a given importer's needs and help facilitate bond placement through a surety.

For importers who have previously paid duties on goods that were later exported or used in manufacturing, duty drawback programs — including unused merchandise drawback and manufacturing drawback customs provisions — may allow for significant duty recovery. These programs are complex and time-sensitive, making professional guidance valuable.

Importers in Southern California looking for a licensed customs broker near the LAX or LA/Long Beach port area can contact Robert Che Chao at 310-417-8747 to discuss their specific import compliance needs.